Counting the Cost petition

Great news about our Counting the Cost petition from Anna Soubry MP, the new Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Public Health and the Minister responsible for immunisation policy.

She has written to our Chief Executive, Chris Head to acknowledge receipt of the petition and says: “I hope that this reply has assured you of our continuing commitment to introduce immunisation against meningococcal B disease.

“I would like to assure you and your members that the Government takes immunisation against infectious diseases extremely seriously. The damage caused by these diseases reinforces the need for the childhood vaccination programme”.

In the letter, the Minister explains that the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JVCI) is currently evaluating Men B vaccination strategies, including the costs of treating MenB and the quality of life of those affected. Our data on the costs of severe meningococcal disease are informing the JVCI’s assessment and it will provide final advice during 2013 “at the earliest”.

She also thanks the charity and its members for its continuing commitment to funding research and raising awareness about meningitis and septicaemia.

Chris Head says: “We are delighted that all the hard work and support of our members in gathering names and delivering this petition, has met with such a positive response. Meningitis Research Foundation will continue to work with Government to ensure a timely and effective vaccination programme for MenB.”